In an age of convenience and instant gratification, homeowners tend to buy the ready-made window cleaning formulas without thinking about price or the aftermath. Cleaning windows can be done using basic household items and with solutions you mix yourself. They're easier on the environment, cheaper than store-bought versions and sometimes more fun to use.

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Outside-the-box Window Cleaning Equipment

Skip the sponge and toss the towel. Alternative window cleaning equipment is just as effective as the contraptions sold on late-night television.

The Newspaper. One great way to reuse your old newspapers is by cleaning windows with them; simply ball up a few sheets and run them along your windows for a streak-free shine that requires very little effort

The Squeegee. This piece of window cleaning equipment is taken straight from the pages of the old-time car wash; the squeegee pushes water and grime down towards the edges which is wiped away clean

Cleaning Windows with Alternative Solutions

The push for "green" cleansers has snowballed into an official trend. Gone are the days of caustic blue chemicals and smelly residues.

Window Solution. Mix two teaspoons of vinegar with one quart of warm water; or, mix 2 tablespoons of borax and 3 cups of water

Window Disinfectant. Mix a quarter cup of borax with a half-gallon of hot water

Stick to the measurements precisely to avoid diluting the solutions and robbing them of their cleaning power. Test on a discrete section of your window to make sure the solutions and equipment do the job properly. Keep in mind that some windows with a special treatment require particular cleaning methods. Consult your window manufacturer's guidelines for cleaning directions.